JAMMAKERS (001)
A new series introducing you to underrated artists you simply NEED to know.
Welcome to JAMMAKERS!
Hey there, it’s Jonnica! I am so excited to be starting JAMMAKERS — a new series that spotlights underrated artists I love (and think you will, too).
I am also excited to take this opportunity to try a somewhat new style of communicating here on Substack.
Although I am Jonnica, and these have always been my recommended Jams, I usually try to let the music and artists I feature speak for themselves, keeping any personal commentary or in-depth opinions to a minimum.
But in doing so, I realized that I’ve kind of ignored a major part of this whole music curation and community thing. The part that relies on having my own uniquely personal relationship with music and sharing my thoughts from an authentic place, not because I think anyone cares what I think, but because a real passion for music is what spurred this project on in the first place, and is what forms the basis for connecting on a human level.
So, with the intention of being a little more vocal about why I enjoy and promote the music that I do, I am thrilled to share some thoughts on the first three artists I consider to be underrated yet undeniable JAMMAKERS: Casey Conroy, KAIRO, and In Color.
⭐️ CASEY CONROY
About: Casey Conroy is truly one of my new favourite artists, and among the very best I have been introduced to through this blog. From the moment I pressed play on “In My Head,” I was hooked, and getting the chance to connect with Casey directly about her music has only made me a bigger fan. If you want the dreamiest indie pop tracks with a dash of songwriting whimsy, look no further. Casey effortlessly blends delicate yet passionate vocals with beautifully dynamic soundscapes that leave you with a bittersweet, nostalgic feeling every time.
For Fans Of: Carol Ades, Maisie Peters, Gracie Abrams, Maggie Rogers.
I’m Currently Listening To: “People On The Internet” — It’s just SO good. And when those drums come in? Speechless!
⭐️ KAIRO
About: KAIRO is a rising pop duo that should definitely be on your radar. Identical twins Ak and Ej blend the catchiness of ‘90s boy bands, the bright energy of hyperpop, and the effortlessly smooth vibes of R&B, leaving truly nothing to dislike. The upbeat, groovy vibes across their catalogue make this duo the perfect playlist addition for the hot summer days we’re currently facing. At the same time, tracks like their latest, “JUST WHEN IT’S OVER,” shine a light on their skills as sentimental songwriters.
For Fans Of: Khalid, Justin Bieber, Dominic Fike, Still Woozy.
I’m Currently Listening To: “ANYBODY HOME?” — This song has simply not left my brain since listening to their 2024 album ARE WE THERE YET?
⭐️ IN COLOR
About: The Nashville-based In Color was formed in 2024 by friends Holden Clontz, Matthew Hastings, Val Hoyt, and Miles Laderman. The quartet’s sound lives at the intersection of indie rock and alternative, where cool guitar tone meets ultra-catchy lyrics. The music feels nostalgic and timeless, yet new. With one EP, Snow Day, plus a handful of singles, it’s still early enough to claim your title as an early fan, but I think it’s only a matter of time before these four become global stars.
For Fans Of: The Band CAMINO, Inhaler, Modernlove., Nightly.
I’m Currently Listening To: “Jet Lag Mouth” — One of the group’s most recent singles, this song is nearly hypnotic with its catchy guitar hook and moody lyrics.